Hug-a-Tree/Kish-a-Fish enjoys record participation

The Aztec Dancers show their moves at the Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish event at the Artesian Lakes Resort on May 14.

The Aztec Dancers show their moves at the Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish event at the Artesian Lakes Resort on May 14.

Photo: Jacob McAdams

Photo: Jacob McAdams

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The Aztec Dancers show their moves at the Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish event at the Artesian Lakes Resort on May 14.

The Aztec Dancers show their moves at the Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish event at the Artesian Lakes Resort on May 14.

Photo: Jacob McAdams

Hug-a-Tree/Kish-a-Fish enjoys record participation

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The Community and Children’s Impact Center hosted its seventh annual Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish event from May 13-15, hosting children and parents for three days of camping, fishing and fun events.

Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish is an event designed to give underprivileged children the opportunity to go camping and fishing.

The event also included a number of guest celebrities and various groups who gave performances or demonstrations for children.

This year, the event included renowned boxer Termite Watkins, former Harlem Globetrotters and even Ronald McDonald. Performances came from groups such as Eddie B, the Aztec Dancers and Amber Holcomb of American Idol fame.

According to Impact Center Executive Director Brenda Myers, the event had approximately 1,682 children show up, nearly 600 more than last year’s event.

“This has exceeded all of my expectations,” she said.

Myers expressed how thankful she is for all of the support Hug-a-Tree/Kiss-a-Fish has received from those who help put it together, such as inspirational singer Eddie B.

“I believe he uplifted everyone while he was out here,” she said.

Myers concluded that the event’s ability to bring together love and friendship is astounding.